Week 27 Pregnancy: Your Baby’s Lungs Are Developing for First Breaths

Welcome to week 27 of pregnancy - just one step away from the third trimester! At the 27th week of pregnancy, you’re entering the final stretch of the second trimester, with your baby making remarkable progress in preparation for life outside the womb.

This week, your baby’s lungs are developing rapidly, practising essential breathing movements even though they’re still surrounded by amniotic fluid. You may start to notice stronger kicks, occasional hiccups, and new physical changes as your body adapts to support your growing baby. This week is all about embracing these exciting developments while focusing on your well-being as you approach the third trimester.

Missed last week? Catch up on the key milestones from pregnancy week 26.

Week 27 body changes

With just 13 weeks to go, you’re getting closer to meeting your little one. From this point onward until your due date, you’ll likely notice more weight gain - not necessarily because of changes in your eating habits, but because this is the phase when your baby experiences rapid growth, gaining the most weight in the womb.

Your body will also continue to change, especially your breasts. You might see further darkening of your areolas (the area around your nipples), along with your linea nigra, a dark line that often appears on the abdomen during pregnancy. These changes are due to the surge in pregnancy hormones.

If sleep has been a challenge, there’s some good news - many expectant mothers find relief from insomnia around this time. However, even with better rest, you might experience unusually vivid, strange, or even lucid dreams, which are common during this stage of pregnancy.

Week 27 pregnancy symptoms

At 27 weeks of pregnancy, you may experience a range of symptoms as your body prepares for the third trimester. These include:

1) Dizziness or light-headedness

• Often caused by your growing uterus putting pressure on blood vessels, which affects circulation.

• You can lessen this by moving slowly when changing positions, staying hydrated, and avoiding lying flat on your back for extended periods.

2) Extra body hair

• This is a result of hormonal fluctuations and is completely normal. Fortunately, it usually fades within the first year after your baby is born. If you'd like to manage it, gentle methods such as threading, shaving, or mild waxing are safe options. 

• Learn more about how your skin and hair change during pregnancy here.

3) Backache in pregnancy

• As your belly grows, your posture changes, leading to back pain. Gentle stretches, wearing supportive shoes, and using a maternity belt can help reduce discomfort.

4) Leg cramps

• Common at night, often due to poor circulation or pressure on nerves. Therefore, stretching your legs before bed, staying hydrated, and gentle exercise can help prevent cramps.

5) Frequent urination 

• With your baby growing and putting more pressure on your bladder, you may find yourself rushing to the bathroom more often. This will likely increase as your pregnancy progresses into the third trimester.

6) Restless legs syndrome (RLS)

• You might experience an overwhelming urge to move your legs, often accompanied by uncomfortable sensations such as crawling, itching, or tingling. Reducing your intake of caffeine and sugary drinks, along with using a heating pad or warm compress, can help ease these symptoms.

7) Swelling (Oedema)

• Mild swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands is common due to increased fluid retention. 

8) Heartburn during pregnancy 

• Your growing uterus pushes on your stomach, causing digestive discomfort like heartburn. Eating smaller meals, avoiding spicy foods, and sitting upright after meals can help manage this.

If you have any concerns or would like professional advice, Thomson Medical is here to support you. Request an appointment with us today to ensure that you and your baby receive personalised care during this exciting journey.

Your baby at week 27

At 27 weeks, your baby is about the size of a large cauliflower or as long as a shoebox, measuring around 36 cm (14 inches) from head to toe and weighing approximately 1 kg (2.2 pounds).

With the continued development of their eyes, your baby can now cry and even shed tiny tears. Their taste buds are fully formed as well, so don’t be surprised if they react - through kicks or little hiccups - when you enjoy spicy or strongly flavoured foods.

This week also marks an important milestone in brain development. Your baby’s brain is no longer smooth and round; it’s beginning to form folds, creating a more complex structure that will support their cognitive growth. Your little one is truly developing a mind of their own!

Pregnancy tests & screenings 

The period between weeks 27 and 32 of your pregnancy is ideal for having a 3D or 4D ultrasound. This allows you to watch your baby moving in real-time and capture a video of these special moments, offering a more dynamic keepsake compared to a traditional static ultrasound image. With your baby’s features now more defined, you may even notice resemblances to either parent.

You are still within the recommended window to screen for gestational diabetes using the Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) or the Glucose Challenge Test (GCT). If you are at risk for preeclampsia, your healthcare provider will continue to monitor your blood pressure and test your urine for protein regularly until your due date to ensure your safety.

Below is a summary of the key tests and screenings for this stage of pregnancy:

Learn more about our prenatal scans for each trimester here.

At Thomson Medical, we offer personalised pregnancy tests and screenings tailored to each week of your pregnancy. You can always request an appointment with us to discuss your pregnancy journey.

Preparing for Week 27 pregnancy

As you approach the 27th week of pregnancy, it’s essential to stay proactive about your health and well-being while preparing for the changes your body and baby are experiencing. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for this exciting stage:

• Prioritise nutrition: 

  • Continue to eat healthy foods and have a balanced diet rich in protein, calcium, iron, and fibre to support your baby’s rapid growth and keep your energy levels up. Staying hydrated is equally important to prevent issues like constipation and swelling.

• Schedule prenatal screenings: 

  • If you haven’t done so yet, schedule your glucose tolerance test to screen for gestational diabetes. Keep up with your regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, baby’s development, and overall health.

• Focus on sleep comfort: 

  • As your pregnancy progresses, you may experience insomnia or restless legs. Using supportive pregnancy pillows and creating a calming bedtime routine can help improve your sleep quality.

• Stay active: 

  • Light exercises like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help ease discomfort, boost circulation, and maintain your strength as you prepare for the final trimester.

• Consider prenatal classes: 

  • If you haven’t already, week 25 is an ideal time to enrol in prenatal classes. These classes can help you feel more prepared for labour, delivery, and caring for your newborn, giving you the knowledge and confidence you need for the weeks ahead.

• Prepare for body changes: 

  • Swelling in your hands and feet, leg cramps, and nasal congestion are common at this stage. Elevate your feet, avoid standing for long periods, and use a humidifier to ease these symptoms.

• Plan for the third trimester: 

  • Start researching childbirth classes (antenatal classes), prenatal workshops, and preparing essentials for your baby’s arrival. This is a good time to create a birth plan or discuss delivery preferences with your healthcare provider.

• Monitor baby’s movements: 

  • Your baby’s movements will become more noticeable and consistent. Keep track of these patterns and inform your doctor of any significant changes.

• Practise pelvic floor exercises:

  • Practising pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) helps strengthen the muscles that support your bladder, uterus, and bowels. This can reduce the risk of incontinence during and after pregnancy. To build the habit, try linking these exercises to daily activities, like brushing your teeth or waiting for the kettle to boil. Aim to do them regularly for the best results.

• Taking naps:

  • Taking naps is an excellent way to manage pregnancy fatigue. Prioritising short, restful naps can help you feel more refreshed and energised.

Thomson Medical’s prenatal and childbirth courses & workshops are designed to provide you with professional, step-by-step guidance on your pregnancy, delivery and caring for your newborn. Register for our courses here.

We understand that preparing for pregnancy can be overwhelming, and we're here to support you every step of the way. Request an appointment with our specialists for personalised care and professional support to guide you through your pregnancy journey. 

FAQ

Are you 7 months pregnant at 27 weeks?

At 27 weeks pregnant, you are at the end of your 6th month of pregnancy, about to enter your 7th month. Pregnancy is typically divided into three trimesters and spans about 40 weeks, with each month not being an exact four weeks long. Since week 27 is the transition point between the second and third trimesters, you’ll officially be considered 7 months pregnant starting from week 28.

What are signs of a healthy pregnancy at 27 weeks?

• Regular baby movements: Feeling consistent kicks, rolls, or flutters throughout the day.

• Steady weight gain: Gradual, healthy weight gain as advised by your doctor.

• Normal growth: A growing baby bump and steady fundal height during check-ups.

• Stable vital signs: Normal blood pressure, no signs of high blood pressure or gestational diabetes.

• Mild pregnancy symptoms: Manageable back pain, leg cramps, or mild swelling.

• Healthy foetal heartbeat: Strong, regular heartbeat detected during prenatal visits.

• Good energy levels: Feeling generally well, with occasional fatigue being normal.

What is the best sleeping position at 27 weeks pregnant?

The best sleeping position at 27 weeks pregnant is on your left side. This position helps improve blood flow to the placenta and your baby, reduces pressure on your liver and major blood vessels, and can help prevent swelling in your legs and feet. For added comfort, you can place an extra pillow between your knees, under your belly, and behind your back to support your body. While sleeping on your right side is also safe occasionally, it’s best to avoid lying flat on your back as this can restrict blood flow and cause discomfort.

How should I sit at 27 weeks pregnant?

At 27 weeks pregnant, it's important to sit with your back straight, shoulders relaxed, and feet flat on the floor. Keep your knees slightly lower than your hips and use a small cushion for lower back support. Avoid crossing your legs and stand up or stretch regularly to improve circulation and reduce discomfort.

What are the dos and don’ts for a healthy pregnancy at 27 weeks?

Dos:

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

• Exercise regularly with light activities like walking or prenatal yoga.

• Get enough rest and sleep on your left side for better circulation.

• Attend prenatal appointments and monitor your baby’s movements.

• Take prenatal vitamins: Continue taking folic acid, iron, and other supplements as recommended.

Don’ts:

• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Both can harm your baby’s development.

• Limit caffeine: Stick to 200 mg or less daily (about one or two cups of coffee or tea).

• Steer clear of raw or undercooked foods: This reduces the risk of foodborne illnesses like listeria.

• Avoid heavy lifting: It can strain your back and cause discomfort.

• Don’t lie flat on your back: This can compress major blood vessels and affect circulation.

• Skip high-mercury fish: Avoid fish like shark, swordfish, or king mackerel.

• Don’t ignore unusual symptoms: Severe pain, bleeding, or reduced baby movement should be reported to your healthcare provider.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a specialist at Thomson Medical. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical today.